Alex Hershaft

Alex Hershaft

Alex Hershaft is an American animal rights activist and Holocaust survivor. He is best known as the co-founder and president of the Farm Animal Rights Movement (FARM), an organization dedicated to promoting a vegan lifestyle and advocating for the rights of farmed animals.

Early Life

Alex Hershaft was born in Warsaw, Poland, in 1934. He survived the Warsaw Ghetto during World War II and later emigrated to the United States with his family. His experiences during the Holocaust had a profound impact on his views on oppression and cruelty, which later influenced his work in the animal rights movement.

Education and Career

Hershaft earned a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Connecticut. He worked as a scientist and environmental consultant before dedicating himself full-time to animal rights activism.

Animal Rights Activism

In 1976, Hershaft attended the World Vegetarian Congress in Orono, Maine, which inspired him to become a vegetarian and later a vegan. In 1981, he co-founded the Farm Animal Rights Movement (FARM), one of the first organizations in the United States to focus on the plight of farmed animals.

FARM and the Great American Meatout

Under Hershaft's leadership, FARM launched several influential campaigns, including the Great American Meatout, an annual event encouraging people to adopt a plant-based diet for a day. The event has grown significantly since its inception in 1985 and has been endorsed by numerous public figures and organizations.

Animal Rights National Conference

Hershaft also organized the first Animal Rights National Conference in 1981, which has since become an annual event. The conference brings together activists, scholars, and organizations to discuss strategies and share information on advancing animal rights.

Legacy and Recognition

Alex Hershaft is widely recognized as a pioneer in the animal rights movement. His work has been instrumental in raising awareness about the ethical treatment of animals and promoting veganism. He continues to be an active advocate for animal rights and frequently speaks at conferences and events.

Personal Life

Hershaft resides in Bethesda, Maryland. He remains active in the animal rights community and continues to work towards a more compassionate world for all beings.

See Also

• Farm Animal Rights Movement
• Great American Meatout
• Animal Rights National Conference
• Veganism
• Vegetarianism